§ Sir J. Langford-Holtasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what steps he proposes to take to restore confidence in the agricultural industry, in view of the 50 per cent. increase in food production costs over the last two years and the 25 per cent. decline in agricultural incomes.
§ Mr. Bishop:I refer the hon. Member to my right hon. Friend's statement on 17th February—[Vol. 886, c. 917.] The determinations which he then announced, together with the new EEC beef régime and the other EEC farm support decisions, provide a sound basis for farmers' production plans in the coming year. We also hope shortly to announce the outcome of the Government's discussions with the interests concerned on the longer-term prospects and objectives for the United Kingdom agricultural industry.